Definition of International
Quick Meaning of International
Something that includes people or countries from different parts of the world, not just one country.
Detailed Definition of International
Involving or concerning more than one country or people from different countries.
How to Pronounce International
Stress pattern: oooOo (5-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on the third syllable: in-ter-NAH-shuh-nal. The 'tion' sounds like 'shun'.
Watch out: Some pronounce with stress on first syllable (IN-ter-na-shun-al), but correct stress is on third syllable.
Origin and Etymology of International
From 'inter-' (between) and 'national' (relating to a nation); coined in the 18th century.
How to Use International in a Sentence
Each example shows “international” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Many students attend international schools with teachers from different countries.”
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“The Olympic Games are a major international sporting event.”
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“International trade agreements affect the economies of multiple nations.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of International
Common Synonyms for International
Smart Synonyms for International — When to Use Each
- global
- for worldwide scope affecting the entire world
- transnational
- more formal term for crossing national borders
Antonyms of International
Common Collocations with International
These phrases pair with “international” in everyday English:
- international student
- international airport
- international trade
- international law
- international community
Common Mistakes When Using International
Even fluent speakers slip up with “international”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She works for international organization in the city.
- ✓ Correct: She works for an international organization in the city.
- Why: Adjective 'international' before vowel sound needs 'an', not just article placement.
- ✗ Wrong: International students goes to the university.
- ✓ Correct: International students go to the university.
- Why: Plural subject 'students' needs plural verb 'go', not singular 'goes'.
Other Forms of International
- Noun: internationalization
- Adjective: international
- Adverb: internationally
Frequently Asked Questions About International
What is the meaning of "International"?
Something that includes people or countries from different parts of the world, not just one country.
How do you pronounce "International"?
The IPA is /ˌɪntərˈnæʃənəl/. Stress on the third syllable: in-ter-NAH-shuh-nal. The 'tion' sounds like 'shun'.
What part of speech is "International"?
"International" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "International"?
Common synonyms include global, worldwide, multicountry.
How do you use "International" in a sentence?
For example: "Many students attend international schools with teachers from different countries."